Turnpike toll hike supports road projects

Managing a public entity like the Pennsylvania Turnpike mandates tough decisions that often generate scrutiny and criticism. Your July 26 article on our new toll structure had a little of both, which is appropriate. Still, I'-d like to provide more context regarding our decision.

In 2004, we increased tolls a significant 42.5 percent. We had no choice: Previous administration leaders lacked the courage to make a tough decision, kicking the can down the road eight years. An easy choice? Absolutely. A responsible decision? Hardly.

At 70, the turnpike is 15 years older than other interstates and must be rebuilt. We are undertaking a $4.5 billion rebuilding effort. We recognized this challenge and addressed it, rather than passing the buck.

The increase impacts customers, so we instituted an E-ZPass incentive. What some forget is these increases are largely funding Act 44 mandated payments to PennDOT. Our customers have provided $2.5 billion for projects statewide.

Ironically, the lobbyist quoted in the article worked tirelessly for a Spanish firm that sought to lease the turnpike. Their plan called for toll increases similar to those we approved. Using his logic, it's acceptable to raise tolls for private profit but bad to raise tolls for public projects.

As a public entity, we welcome criticism. We've worked to streamline operations, and there's always room for improvement. However, the next time The Patriot-News quotes a "transportation lobbyist," I hope the paper holds him accountable to his own words and track record.